It finally feels like Spring in San Diego! The last year was a challenge none of us expected, but thanks to perseverance and solidarity, we’ve made it through and are ready to move forward.
One of the lessons of recovery is learning to live life on life’s terms. Now that people are getting vaccinated, restrictions are easing and things are looking up, we are focusing on the growth and strength we’ve all gained from the experience.
Looking Ahead
This past year had a lot of loss, but it gave us a newfound appreciation for life at its simplest.
Personally
We no longer take for granted all the small pleasures and responsibilities of life. Going to the gym is luxury rather than a chore. We look forward to lunches with co-workers and after-meeting gatherings with our fellows. We have been reminded how lucky we are to have places to go and things to do. We will try not to lose sight of all the good in our lives as we prepare for future challenges.
Professionally
We are eager to see our alumni again. We are excited at the prospect of having events with the full spectrum of our Stepping Stone family. We are especially thrilled to welcome back our volunteers. They have not only had major impact on the work we do here, but have always brought love and light into our lives and the lives of all our clients.
We’ll be using the lessons we learned as a team to make Stepping Stone an even stronger support for those struggling with substance use. We saw how nimble and resilient we can be under duress. Now we can put those skills to use to grow and flourish.
On the Horizon
Graduation Ceremonies
Program completion ceremonies — we call them Graduations — have been a very important part of the Stepping Stone experience, so we are delighted to report that we are planning our first graduation in over a year! Final details still need to be addressed, but look for an announcement soon! We look forward to celebrating with alumni, staff, and clients as we recognize all those who successfully completed treatment during this past year.
Residential Treatment
No one will be happier to see visitors and go to in-person meetings than our residents, who have learned an even greater level of patience and willingness thanks to an extended shelter-in-place experience.
Stepping Out Outpatient Program
We’re happy to report that we plan to resume groups full time on June 1. For those who prefer online groups, we will provide these later in the day or early evening. We are looking forward to expanding our services and to reaching new clients in the coming weeks.
Moving Forward
With a renewed strength and passion for serving our community, we are collaborating and coordinating with our entire team, our supporters, and our allies to create safe ways in which we can all gather again soon! We are grateful we were able to help so many people with their sobriety during the pandemic. Join us in celebrating those successes and helping us provide resources to those still struggling with addiction.
Event announcements will be made on our website and on social media!